Networking 101/Creating an Elevator Speech

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Transcript of Networking 101/Creating an Elevator Speech

NETWORKING 101What is Networking?It is NOT asking for a job"Networking is the deliberate process of exchanging information, resources, support and access in such a way as to create mutually beneficial relationships for personal and professional success".From Make Your Contacts Count, by Baber and WaymonGetting Started TipsFollow through on referrals and thank contacts in writingMemorize your strengths and strong pointsBring padfolio and penWrite some notes on the back of cards you collectBe Professional and PoliteImportant to make a good first impressionDress wellConduct yourself respectfullyAvoid drinking too muchAvoid discussing controversial topics (politics, religion, etc.)Present yourself as someone worth getting to knowNetwork OnlineLinkedInFacebookPinterestResearch blogs Add your profile to ones beneficialKeep track of who you've emailed and where you have posted so you can follow upJoin Professional OrganizationsLook for groups in your fieldAlumni organizationsAttend social functions of these groupsAttend Community FunctionsJob fairsLocal festivalsShake hands with as many people as possibleFinal SuggestionsRisk rejection - Don't take it personallyNo contact is too smallEvery opportunity is a chance to meet new peopleIntroduce yourself to everyone you canMove around the roomIt is ok to introduce others into conversationGet to know your contacts and maintain a connection with themTry to remember one thing about each contact for next timeBe PreparedPractice an introductionDo your researchBring resumes, business cards and a cell phonePrepare Your Elevator SpeechConversational, friendly, introductory information that you can deliver easily and quicklyTypes you may need:IntroductoryMarketing yourself "Hello, my name is _______. I am a junior level marketing student at UAFS. [What do I say next?]What Should an Elevator Speech Include? Who you are, plus a credentialA specific goal/career interestWhat makes you qualifiedA question or request for assistanceWhat NOT to includeReligionPoliticsRaceGender biasesYour agePersonal issuesIncomeContact:Ron OrickDirectorBabb Center for Student Professional Development(479) 788-7019ron.orick@uafs.eduHow to Get StartedStart a conversationIntroduce yourselfTalk about the companyWeather, arts, leisure activity (if appropriate)Speak clearlyBe YOUWatch for time constraintsKey points:What you doWhat you want to doAchievementsDistinguishing factorsLets give it a try!Write it down firstPractice by yourselfPractice with a partnerDemonstrate Your SpeechYou must successfully demonstrate your elevator speech before leaving class today. Examples:Hi, my name is Mary Jones. I am currently a junior level Marketing major at UAFS. I have just finished my first internship with the Fort Smith Chamber of Commerce, which provided the opportunity to network with lots of area business representatives. I'm hoping to find another internship in the marketing or sales area this summer in the Fort Smith area. I have always had an interest in marketing and I am also finding that I have a strong interest in sales. In the future, I'm hoping to combine these two and find a career that includes both areas. In noticed on your website that you have several sales opportunities and a student employment program. Do you also offer internships?